Quarry proposal rejected by minister

Environment and Labour Minister Mark Parent has rejected a proposal by Bilcon to build a basalt quarry and marine terminal at Whites Point.

"I have reviewed the report submitted by the independent panel and will not be approving the quarry in Whites Point," said Parent on Tuesday, Nov. 20. "The panel has submitted information that concludes the project poses unacceptable risk to the environment and the community. I agree with their conclusion and will not approve the project."

The minister's authority to reject the proposed project is included in section 40 of the Environment Act.

Parent thanked the federal-provincial panel for its report. He will take the board's additional recommendations under consideration and will share them with appropriate departments.

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